Ink Well Beach

Ink Well Beach, the 200-square-foot portion of Santa Monica State Beach that was once roped off and reserved only for African-Americans, will soon be awarded its own commemorative plaque by the City.

The City Council directed staff last year to research options for creating a plaque in honor of Ink Well Beach and surfer Nicolas “Nick” Rolando Gabaldon, who is historically considered to be the first African-American surfer.

Rhonda Harper, an African-American female surfer, asked the City to install the plaque because many African-Americans and other minorities still frequent the former Ink Well Beach site between Bay and Bicknell streets south of Santa Monica Pier.

She said many beachgoers have no idea about the history behind Ink Well Beach or of the Gabaldon legend.

“There are two heroes here in Santa Monica that have not been recognized — Nick Gabaldon and the Ink Well Beach,” Harper said.

One Response

Thank you very much. This information should be passed down to every generation. A new folk tale for our children that believe the are limited by the color of their skin. We are life and love is the key to giving the new generation hope for their futures.